Top tips for winter walking.

Winter Walking.

Winter Walking - top of the mountains

It is a time of the year when you really feel that you are outside. You can be walking into a bracing wind, battling against the elements and more often than not you are the only one out there braving those elements.  On the flip side, the sun is out and it is a crisp frosty morning and the fresh air that fills your nose and lungs is truly invigorating.

Either way, one of the best things about winter walking is getting back indoors. Whether it is a pub with a roaring, cracking log fire and a delicious roast beef lunch, or back at home for a steaming mug of tea and a large slice of homemade fruit cake.

Below are some top tips to ensure you have a wonderful day out in the hills, mountains or just across Ashdown Forest.

What speed do you walk at?
Think carefully about where you are going and how long it will take you to do the walk.  The shortest day is mid winter - 21^st December and it can be dark by 4pm. Unless you are into night hiking (which is great fun!) you must plan your day.  Consider how long you are walking for and how long it will take you.  For walks on the flat, plan for 2 mph. If you are in the hills or mountains plan for around 1mph – which includes all your stopping time. There are more technical ways of working out how much time to allow for your route and we can go through that in another article.

What are you wearing?  Make sure your walking boots are still waterproof – even if it isn’t raining it will still be wet underfoot. Wet grass can soak through your walking boots and make your feet wet surprisingly quickly. Check the weather forecast and make sure you are taking the right clothing. If it is going to be very cold, pack a spare fleece.  It is better to wear more layers of clothing than one thick layer. Wear a hat and gloves. You can lose a huge amount of heat from your head, try not to.  Waterproofs, top and bottom are essential. Even if it isn’t raining when you set out.

Food. Take plenty. I always eat a lot on a walk and more so when it cold.  Your body needs more calories to keep you warm.  I always like to take some hot squash in a small vacuum flask. There is nothing more comforting than drinking hot blackcurrant part way around a walk. I it is even better than tea and the sugar content gives you a boost as well.

Tell someone where you are going.
May sound like the thing you had to do as a kid – but if you are out walking on your own and take a slip on frozen ground, people need to know where you are. Especially if you do not get back when planned.